Entomological Survey and Leishmania (Leishmania) mexicana Prevalence in Sand Fly Species during an Outbreak of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Quintana Roo State, Mexico.

(1) Background: Localized cutaneous leishmaniasis is a neglected vector-borne disease that has become a serious public health problem in the Yucatan Peninsula. Although more than 60% of cases originate from the state of Quintana Roo, it is one of the least explored areas in terms of incriminating vectors of the Leishmania parasite. Additionally, cases of leishmaniasis have increased substantially in that region in recent years. For this reason, we explored and provided primary evidence of Leishmania DNA in sand fly species from four localities during outbreaks of leishmaniasis in Quintana Roo. We also contributed information on the regional genetic diversity of Leishmania parasites. (2) Methods: Sand flies were collected during several periods from November 2022 to April 2023 using Mosquito Light Circle and Shannon traps, as well as an active entomological search in refuges. For Leishmania detection, we amplified a fragment of 300-350 bp of the internal transcribed spacer subunit 1 (ITS-1). (3) Results: Of the 242 females collected, we detected Leishmania DNA in 25 specimens represented by Bichromomyia olmeca (1), Psathyromyia shannoni (17), Lutzomyia cruciata (4), Psathyromyia undulata (2), and Dampfomyia deleoni (1). The detection of Leishmania in these last two species represents new records for the Yucatan Peninsula and for Mexico. Leishmania (Leishmania) mexicana was the only species detected in the Phlebotominae species, with prevalence values that ranked between 7.41% and 33.33% from specimens collected in the sylvatic areas of Cozumel Island and Petcacab. (4) Conclusions: This study provides the first evidence of infection of Da. deleoni and Pa. undulata by L. (L.) Mexicana. In addition, the presence of three dominant haplotypes in all the evaluated localities was evidenced using the analysis of genetic diversity, and the locality of Petcacab was the one with the circulation of two new haplotypes not previously described in Mexico or neighboring countries. These results highlight the importance of intensive epidemiological surveillance due to the dynamics of transmission of Leishmania between different species.

Species diversity and detection of pathogens in phlebotomine sand flies collected from forest management areas of Quintana Roo, Mexico.

Sand flies have expanded their areas of distribution, thereby increasing the risk of pathogen transmission in non-endemic areas. To establish efficient prevention and control strategies for the transmission of vector-borne pathogens, it is important to understand seasonal dynamics of their vectors. In Mexico, there are several areas where the contact between sand flies, hosts and reservoirs favours the transmission of the pathogen. We compared sand fly communities in a forest management area and a conserved area in Noh-Bec, Quintana Roo, Mexico. The analysis included species diversity, activity peaks and molecular detection of pathogens. Sand flies were collected from November to December 2021 and April to May 2022, during 84 night-traps. The conserved area showed higher numbers and greater species heterogeneity of sand flies as compared with the other sites. The ß-diversity analysis revealed that sites disturbed by logging (S1, S2, S3) had greater similarity (90%) in their sand fly species composition than a conserved area (S4) (similarity = 36%). Although none of the specimens were infected with Leishmania, we detected Wolbachia (19.4%) in all four sites, as well as Bartonella (3.25%) only in the disturbed sites. Further studies on the dynamics of sand fly populations and their association with pathogens are necessary.

Phylogenetic relations among Mexican phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae) and their divergence time estimation.

Phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae: Phlebotominae) have biological relevance as vectors of several pathogens. To ensure periodic entomological monitoring it is necessary to have efficient and accurate tools for an adequate taxonomic identification. There are only few studies on phylogenetic analyses of phlebotomine sand flies from Neotropics, based mostly on morphological and/or molecular data, which makes the delimitation of intra- and interspecific variability of species challenging. Here we generated new molecular information on sand fly species distributed in endemic areas of leishmaniasis in Mexico, using mitochondrial and ribosomal genes, and incorporating morphological information available. Specifically, we established their phylogenetic relationships, and estimated their divergence time. Our study provides molecular information for 15 phlebotomine sand fly species from different areas of Mexico, contributing to the genetic inventory and phylogenetic relations among Neotropical species of the subfamily Phlebotominae. Mitochondrial genes proved to be suitable markers for the molecular identification of phlebotomine sand flies. However, the incorporation of additional nuclear gene information could increase the significance of phylogenetic inferences. We also provided evidence about a possible divergence time of phlebotomine sand fly species, supporting their presumable origin in the Cretaceous period.

Functional Clustering of Metabolically Related Genes Is Conserved across Dikarya.

Transcriptional regulation is vital for organismal survival, with many layers and mechanisms collaborating to balance gene expression. One layer of this regulation is genome organization, specifically the clustering of functionally related, co-expressed genes along the chromosomes. Spatial organization allows for position effects to stabilize RNA expression and balance transcription, which can be advantageous for a number of reasons, including reductions in stochastic influences between the gene products. The organization of co-regulated gene families into functional clusters occurs extensively in Ascomycota fungi. However, this is less characterized within the related Basidiomycota fungi despite the many uses and applications for the species within this clade. This review will provide insight into the prevalence, purpose, and significance of the clustering of functionally related genes across Dikarya, including foundational studies from Ascomycetes and the current state of our understanding throughout representative Basidiomycete species.

Effects of combination treatment with tezepelumab and allergen immunotherapy on nasal responses to allergen: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) has been shown to play a central role in the initiation and persistence of allergic responses. OBJECTIVE: We evaluated whether tezepelumab, a human monoclonal anti-TSLP antibody, improved the efficacy of subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy (SCIT) and promoted the development of tolerance in patients with allergic rhinitis. METHODS: We conducted a double-blind parallel design trial in patients with cat allergy. A total of 121 patients were randomized to receive either intravenous tezepelumab plus subcutaneous cat SCIT, cat SCIT alone, tezepelumab alone, or placebo for 52 weeks, followed by 52 weeks of observation. Nasal allergen challenge (NAC), skin testing, and blood and nasal samples were obtained throughout the study. RESULTS: At week 52, the NAC-induced total nasal symptom scores (TNSS) (calculated as area under the curve [AUC0-1h] and as peak score [Peak0-1h] during the first hour after NAC) were significantly reduced in patients receiving tezepelumab/SCIT compared to SCIT alone. At week 104, one year after stopping treatment, the primary end point TNSS AUC0-1h was not significantly different in the tezepelumab/SCIT group compared to SCIT alone, while TNSS Peak0-1h was significantly lower in those receiving combination treatment versus SCIT. Transcriptomic analysis of nasal epithelial samples demonstrated that treatment with the combination of SCIT/tezepelumab, but neither monotherapy, caused persistent downregulation of a gene network related to type 2 inflammation that was associated with improvement in NAC responses. CONCLUSIONS: Inhibition of TSLP augments the efficacy of SCIT during therapy and may promote tolerance after a 1-year course of treatment. (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02237196).

Arachnoiditis ossifications in the spine / Aracnoidite ossificante na coluna vertebral / Aracnoiditis osificante en la columna vertebral

ABSTRACT Introduction: Arachnoiditis ossificans (AO) in the spine is a rare entity characterized by progressive calcification of the arachnoid and dural sac, with consequent neurological involvement. Objective: Review the causes, clinical manifestations, and complementary studies for their correct diagnosis. Method: Systematic review under PRISMA guidelines, with search in Pubmed, Lilacs, and Embase. Patient demographics (sex and age), history reported as a cause of AO and time elapsed between cause and diagnosis of AO, clinical manifestations, and complementary studies used for diagnosis were collected. Results: 38 articles, of which we collected 46 patients (25 women, 21 men), mean age of 52 years. The most frequent cause was previous spine surgery and myelography with fat-soluble contrast. The most frequent symptoms were insufficient muscle strength (74%) and pain (69%). CT was used in 76%. The most frequent location was thoracic (35%). Conclusion: Its pathogenesis is unclear; described as the final cause of a chronic inflammatory process in the arachnoid with the consequent bone metaplasia. Diagnosis usually precedes a long period of pain and progressive neurological symptoms. The most sensitive and specific complementary study for the diagnosis is the tomography without contrast, which should be requested in case of clinical suspicion. Level of Evidence II; Systematic Review.

Resumo: Introdução: A aracnoidite ossificante (AO) na coluna vertebral é uma entidade rara caracterizada por calcificação progressiva do saco aracnóideo e dural, com consequente envolvimento neurológico. Objetivo: revisar as causas, manifestações clínicas e estudos complementares para o seu correto diagnóstico. Método: Revisão sistemática sob as diretrizes do PRISMA, com busca no Pubmed, Lilacs e Embase. Foram coletados dados demográficos dos pacientes (sexo e idade), história relatada como causa de AO e tempo decorrido entre a causa e o diagnóstico de AO, manifestações clínicas e estudos complementares utilizados para o diagnóstico. Resultados: 38 artigos, dos quais foram coletados 46 pacientes (25 mulheres, 21 homens), com idade média de 52 anos. A causa mais frequente foi cirurgia prévia da coluna vertebral e mielografia com contraste lipossolúvel. Os sintomas mais frequentes foram comprometimento da força muscular (74%) e dor (69%). A TC foi utilizada em 76%. A localização mais frequente foi torácica (35%). Conclusões: Sua patogênese não é clara, é descrita como a causa final de um processo inflamatório crônico na aracnoide com a consequente metaplasia óssea. O diagnóstico é geralmente precedido por um longo período de dor acompanhado por sintomas neurológicos progressivos. O estudo complementar mais sensível e específico para o seu diagnóstico é a tomografia sem contraste, que deve ser solicitada em caso de suspeita clínica. Nível de Evidência II; Revisão sistemática.

Resumen: Introducción: La aracnoiditis osificante (AO) en la columna vertebral es una entidad rara que se caracteriza por la calcificación progresiva de la aracnoides y el saco dural, con la consecuente afectación neurológica. Objetivo: revisar las causas, manifestaciones clínicas y los estudios complementarios para su correcto diagnóstico. Método: Revisión sistemática bajo las directrices PRISMA, con búsqueda en Pubmed, Lilacs y Embase. Se recolectaron los datos demográficos de los pacientes (sexo y edad), el antecedente reportado como causa de AO y el tiempo transcurrido entre causa y el diagnóstico de AO, las manifestaciones clínicas y los estudios complementarios utilizados para el diagnóstico. Resultados: 38 artículos, de los cuales recolectamos 46 pacientes (25 mujeres, 21 hombres), promedio de edad 52 años. La causa más frecuente fue la cirugía previa de columna vertebral y la mielografía con contraste liposoluble Los síntomas más frecuentes fueron la alteración de la fuerza muscular (74%) y dolor (69%). Se utilizó TC en un 76%. La ubicación más frecuente fue torácica (35%). Conclusiones: Su patogenia no es clara, se describe como causa final de un proceso inflamatorio crónico en la aracnoides con la consecuente metaplasia ósea. El diagnóstico generalmente se precede de un largo periodo de dolor acompañado de síntomas neurológicos progresivos. El estudio complementario más sensible y específico para su diagnóstico es la tomografía sin contraste, que debe ser solicitado ante la sospecha clínica. Nivel de Evidencia II; Revisión sistemática.

Role of Nitrogen and Yttrium Contents in Manufacturing (Cr, Y)Nx Film Nanostructures.

The high-power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS) technique was applied to deposit multilayer-like (Cr, Y)Nx coatings on AISI 304L stainless steel, using pendular substrate oscillation and a Cr-Y target and varying the nitrogen flow rate from 10 to 50 sccm. The microstructure, mechanical and tribological properties were investigated by scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, instrumented nano-hardness, and wear tests. The columnar grain structure became highly segmented and nanosized due to pendular substrate oscillation and the addition of yttrium. The deposition rate increased continuously with the growing nitrogen flow rate. The increase in nitrogen flow from 10 to 50 sccm increased the hardness of the coatings (Cr, Y)Nx, with a maximum hardness value of 32.7 GPa for the coating (Cr, Y)Nx with a nitrogen flow of 50 sccm, which greatly surpasses the hardness of CrN films with multilayer-like (Cr, Y)Nx coatings architecture. The best mechanical and tribological performance was achieved for a nitrogen flow rate of 50 sccm. This was enabled by more elevated compressive stresses and impact energies of the impinging ions during film growth, owing to an increase of HiPIMS peak voltage with a rising N2/Ar ratio.

Tailoring the Hybrid Magnetron Sputtering Process (HiPIMS and dcMS) to Manufacture Ceramic Multilayers: Powering Conditions, Target Materials, and Base Layers.

The mechanical and wear behavior of CrN/CrAlN multilayers were improved by tailoring the experimental conditions of a hybrid magnetron sputtering process based on a high-power impulse (HiPIMS) and two direct current magnetron sputtering (dcMS) power supplies. To this end, the influence of the base layer and of the combination of Cr and CrAl targets, which were switched to the dcMS and HiPIMS power supplies in different configurations, were investigated with respect to the growth of ceramic CrN/CrAlN multilayers onto commercial gas-nitrided diesel piston rings. The microstructure, grain morphology, and mechanical properties were evaluated by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and instrumented nanoindentation. Bench wear tests simulating the operation of a combustion engine were conducted against a gray cast iron cylinder liner under reciprocating conditions using 0W20 oil as a lubricating agent enriched with Al2O3 particles. The results revealed a significant increase in hardness, resistance to plastic strain, and wear resistance when two CrAl targets were switched to a HiPIMS and a dcMS power supply, and a Cr target was powered by another dcMS power supply. The compressive coating stresses were slightly reduced due to the soft Cr base layer that enabled stress relief within the multilayer. The proposed concept of hybrid magnetron sputtering outperformed the commercial PVD coatings of CrN for diesel piston rings manufactured by cathodic arc evaporation.

Outcomes in Temporary ICUs Versus Conventional ICUs: An Observational Cohort of Mechanically Ventilated Patients With COVID-19-Induced Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of temporary ICUs have been established worldwide. The outcomes and management of mechanically ventilated patients in these areas remain unknown. OBJECTIVES: To investigate mortality and management of mechanically ventilated patients in temporary ICUs. DESIGN SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: Observational cohort study in a single-institution academic center. We included all adult patients with severe COVID-19 hospitalized in temporary and conventional ICUs for invasive mechanical ventilation due to acute respiratory distress syndrome from March 23, 2020, to April 5, 2021. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: To determine if management in temporary ICUs increased 30-day in-hospital mortality compared with conventional ICUs. Ventilator-free days, ICU-free days (both at 28 d), hospital length of stay, and ICU readmission were also assessed. RESULTS: We included 776 patients (326 conventional and 450 temporary ICUs). Thirty-day in-hospital unadjusted mortality (28.8% conventional vs 36.0% temporary, log-rank test p = 0.023) was higher in temporary ICUs. After controlling for potential confounders, hospitalization in temporary ICUs was an independent risk factor associated with mortality (hazard ratio, 1.4; CI, 1.06-1.83; p = 0.016).There were no differences in ICU-free days at 28 days (6; IQR, 0-16 vs 2; IQR, 0-15; p = 0.5) or ventilator-free days at 28 days (8; IQR, 0-16 vs 5; IQR, 0-15; p = 0.6). We observed higher reintubation (18% vs 12%; p = 0.029) and readmission (5% vs 1.6%; p = 0.004) rates in conventional ICUs despite higher use of postextubation noninvasive mechanical ventilation (13% vs 8%; p = 0.025). Use of lung-protective ventilation (87% vs 85%; p = 0.5), prone positioning (76% vs 79%; p = 0.4), neuromuscular blockade (96% vs 98%; p = 0.4), and COVID-19 pharmacologic treatment was similar. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: We observed a higher 30-day in-hospital mortality in temporary ICUs. Although both areas had high adherence to evidence-based management, hospitalization in temporary ICUs was an independent risk factor associated with mortality.

Hybrid magnetron sputtering of ceramic superlattices for application in a next generation of combustion engines.

A hybrid magnetron sputtering process (dcMS/HiPIMS) was developed to manufacture nanostructured CrN/Cr1-xAlxN multilayers, motivated by improving the low-emission efficiency when applied on gas-nitrided diesel piston rings of a next-generation of combustion engines. In order to improve the mechanical, tribological, and corrosion behavior of the multilayers, the hybrid dcMS/HiPIMS process was designed by selecting the optimal sputtering procedure applied to AISI 440 base steel. The effect of substrate bias and carousel rotational speed on the phase composition, crystallographic texture, residual stresses, surface roughness, coating periodicity and densification, instrumented hardness, elastic modulus, as well as wear and corrosion resistance was determined. The results have demonstrated that hybrid magnetron sputtering produces multilayers with a superlattice structure, which outperforms commercial PVD coatings of CrN for diesel piston rings manufactured by cathodic arc evaporation. Also, multilayer periodicities in the range of 5 to 10 nm yield the best tribological performance under bench tests for the piston ring/cylinder liner system.

On Improving Wear Resistance of Cr-Al-N Coatings Using Dynamic Glancing Angle DC Magnetron Sputtering.

The development of alternatives for wear protection in surface engineering can be responsible for a significant decrease in energy waste as a large amount of the energy produced in the world is lost due to tribological contact. Dynamic Glancing Angle Deposition has been recently evaluated as a route to produce coatings with improved wear performance. In this technique, the substrate oscillates along with a determined range in front of the sputtering target during the growth of the film. In this study, five oscillatory ranges (0, ±5°, ±10°, ±15°, ±20°) were probed to manufacture nanostructured Cr-Al-N coatings using direct current magnetron sputtering, and their impact was investigated on the grain morphology, phase formation, chemical composition, and performance of the coatings. FEG-SEM revealed the formation of multilayer-like architecture across the grains of the coatings. The deposition rate and hardness improved, and a more than 2-fold decrease in the material loss was observed in a comparison between the stationary-deposited conventional coating and the sample produced under ±10° oscillatory range. This indicated the potential use of this technique in future surface engineering applications.

New Distribution Records of Anopheles darlingi in Quintana Roo, Southeastern Mexico.

Anopheles darlingi is considered the main vector of malaria in the Neotropical region, so knowledge of its distribution in the Americas is highly relevant for the design of strategies for prevention and control of the illness. In Mexico, An. darlingi was recorded for the first time in 1943, and currently its distribution covers the states of Campeche, Chiapas, Quintana Roo, and Tabasco. In this study, new distribution data and observations of the abundance of An. darlingi in 14 localities of Quintana Roo, southeastern Mexico, are presented.

Caracterización clínica de pacientes con gangrena de Fournier del Hospital General Docente "Dr. Agostinho Neto", 2008-2018 / Clinical characterization of patients with Fournier's gangrene at the Hospital General Docente "Dr. Agostinho Neto", 2008-2018 / Caracterização clínica de pacientes com gangrena de Fournier no Hospital Geral de Ensino "Dr. Agostinho Neto", 2008-2018

RESUMEN Introducción: La gangrena de Fournier se define como una forma específica de fascitis necrotizante Tipo I, que constituye una emergencia urológica, poco frecuente y de elevada mortalidad. Objetivo: Caracterizar la gangrena de Fournier en los pacientes atendidos en el servicio de Urología del Hospital General Docente "Dr. Agostinho Neto" en el periodo enero 2008 - diciembre 2018. Método: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo de variables demográficas y clínicas (edad, sexo, mortalidad, comorbilidad, causas desencadenantes, sitio primario de la infección, sitio de extensión de la infección, estadía hospitalaria) en 20 pacientes. La historia clínica fue la fuente de información primaria. Los datos fueron procesados mediante el programa estadístico SPSS versión 20.0, y se utilizó la estadística descriptiva para determinar las frecuencias absolutas y relativas (porcentajes) y media. Resultados: El 100 % correspondió a varones con un promedio de edad de 64,0 años (27-92); la mortalidad fue del 40 %. La diabetes mellitus fue la comorbilidad más frecuente en 10 pacientes (50,0 %), 12 (60,0 %) tenían más de un proceso comórbido. Las lesiones cutáneas constituyeron la causa primaria en 11 (55,0 %), y los escrotos fueron el principal sitio de origen de la infección en el 55,0 %. El promedio de estadía hospitalaria fue de 37,7 días (7-75 días). Conclusiones: La correcta evaluación de las variables demográficas y clínicas es necesaria para establecer un correcto diagnóstico y plan de tratamiento.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Fournier's gangrene is defined as a specific form of Type I necrotizing fasciitis, which constitutes a rare urological emergency with high mortality. Objective: To characterize Fournier's gangrene in patients treated in the Urology service of the Hospital General Docente "Dr. Agostinho Neto" in the period from January 2008 to December 2018. Method: A descriptive study of demographic and clinical variables (age, gender, mortality, comorbidity, triggering causes, primary site of infection, site of extension of the infection, hospital stay) was carried out in 20 patients. The medical history was the primary source of information. The data were processed using the statistical program SPSS, version 20.0, and descriptive statistics were used to determine the absolute and relative frequencies (percentages) and mean. Results: 100% corresponded to men with an average age of 64.0 years (27-92); mortality made a 40%. Diabetes mellitus was the most frequent comorbidity, in 10 of the patients (50.0%); 12 patients (60.0%) had more than one comorbid process. Skin lesions were the primary cause in 11 (55.0%), and the scrotum was the main site of origin of infection in 55.0%. The mean hospital stay was 37.7 days (7-75 days). Conclusions: The correct evaluation of the demographic and clinical variables is necessary to establish a correct diagnosis and treatment plan.

RESUMO Introdução: A gangrena de Fournier é definida como uma forma específica de fasceíte necrosante tipo I, que se constitui em uma rara emergência urológica com alta mortalidade. Objetivo: Caracterizar a gangrena de Fournier em pacientes atendidos no serviço de Urologia do Hospital Geral Universitário "Dr. Agostinho Neto" no período de janeiro de 2008 a dezembro de 2018. Método: Estudo descritivo de variáveis demográficas e clínicas (idade, sexo, mortalidade, comorbidade, causas desencadeantes, sítio primário de infecção, extensão do sítio de infecção, internação) em 20 pacientes. O histórico médico foi a principal fonte de informação. Os dados foram processados no programa estatístico SPSS versão 20.0, e a estatística descritiva foi utilizada para determinar as frequências absolutas e relativas (percentuais) e a média. Resultados: 100% corresponderam a homens com idade média de 64,0 anos (27-92); a mortalidade foi de 40%. Diabetes mellitus foi a comorbidade mais frequente em 10 pacientes (50,0%), 12 (60,0%) apresentaram mais de um processo comórbido. Lesões cutâneas foram a causa primária em 11 (55,0%), e o escroto foi o principal sítio de origem da infecção em 55,0%. O tempo médio de internação foi de 37,7 dias (7-75 dias). Conclusões: A correta avaliação das variáveis demográficas e clínicas é necessária para estabelecer um correto diagnóstico e plano de tratamento.

Detection of Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus (Skuse) in ovitraps of Mérida city, México / Detección de Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus (Skuse) en ovitrampas en Mérida, México

Introduction: The vector-borne diseases program in México has an established network of ovitraps for entomological surveillance of Aedes spp. In response to reports of Aedes albopictus in the periphery of Mérida, the state capital of Yucatán, the Ministry of Health increased the specificity of this surveillance. Objective: To describe the presence and distribution of Ae. albopictus in Mérida and its relative abundance compared to Aedes aegypti in ovitraps of the vector control program. Materials and methods: During October, 2019, 91 ovitraps were randomly selected from 31 neighborhoods of Mérida. Mosquitoes were reared at the insectary of the Collaborative Unit for Entomological Bioassays of the Autonomous University of Yucatán from eggs collected in the field. Relative abundance was determined for adult individuals of each identified species and neighborhood. Results: 32 % of the neighborhoods were positive for Ae. albopictus and 100 % for Ae. aegypti. A total of 28 adults of Ae. albopictus (10 females and 18 males) were obtained from ovitraps. No correlation was observed between the abundance of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus for both adults and females (p>0.05) at the neighborhood level. Conclusions: The results confirm that Ae. albopictus coexisted with Ae. aegypti in Mérida at the time of the study. The low relative abundance suggests that Ae. albopictus was in the initial phase of invasion.

Introducción. El programa de enfermedades transmitidas por vectores en México tiene una red establecida de ovitrampas para la vigilancia entomológica de Aedes spp. Los servicios de salud del estado de Yucatán, en respuesta a reportes de Aedes albopictus en la periferia de Mérida, capital del estado, incrementaron la especificidad de dicha vigilancia. Objetivo. Describir la presencia y distribución de Ae. albopictus en Mérida y su abundancia relativa comparada con Aedes aegypti, en ovitrampas del programa de control de vectores. Materiales y métodos. Durante octubre de 2019, se seleccionaron al azar 91 ovitrampas en 31 barrios de Mérida. Los mosquitos adultos se obtuvieron del insectario de la Unidad Colaborativa para Bioensayos Entomológicos de la Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán a partir de huevos recolectados en campo. Se determinó la abundancia relativa de individuos adultos de cada especie identificada y por barrios evaluados. Resultados. En el 32 % de los barrios muestreados, se detectó Ae. albopictus y, en todos ellos, Ae. aegypti. Se recolectaron 28 adultos de Ae. albopictus (10 hembras y 18 machos) en las ovitrampas. No se observó correlación entre la abundancia de adultos ni de hembras Ae. aegypti y Ae. albopictus por barrio (p>0,05). Conclusiones. Los resultados confirmaron que Ae. albopictus estaba coexistiendo con Ae. aegypti en Mérida en el momento del estudio. La baja abundancia relativa sugiere que Ae. albopictus se encontraba en la fase inicial de invasión.

Detección de Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus (Skuse) en ovitrampas en Mérida, México / Detection of Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus (Skuse) in ovitraps of Mérida city, México

Resumen | Introducción. El programa de enfermedades transmitidas por vectores en México tiene una red establecida de ovitrampas para la vigilancia entomológica de Aedes spp. Los servicios de salud del estado de Yucatán, en respuesta a reportes de Aedes albopictus en la periferia de Mérida, capital del estado, incrementaron la especificidad de dicha vigilancia. Objetivo. Describir la presencia y distribución de Ae. albopictus en Mérida y su abundancia relativa comparada con Aedes aegypti, en ovitrampas del programa de control de vectores. Materiales y métodos. Durante octubre de 2019, se seleccionaron al azar 91 ovitrampas en 31 barrios de Mérida. Los mosquitos adultos se obtuvieron del insectario de la Unidad Colaborativa para Bioensayos Entomológicos de la Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán a partir de huevos recolectados en campo. Se determinó la abundancia relativa de individuos adultos de cada especie identificada y por barrios evaluados. Resultados. En el 32 % de los barrios muestreados, se detectó Ae. albopictus y, en todos ellos, Ae. aegypti. Se recolectaron 28 adultos de Ae. albopictus (10 hembras y 18 machos) en las ovitrampas. No se observó correlación entre la abundancia de adultos ni de hembras Ae. aegypti y Ae. albopictus por barrio (p>0,05). Conclusiones. Los resultados confirmaron que Ae. albopictus estaba coexistiendo con Ae.aegypti en Mérida en el momento del estudio. La baja abundancia relativa sugiere que Ae.albopictus se encontraba en la fase inicial de invasión.

Abstract | Introduction:The vector-borne diseases program in México has an established network of ovitraps for entomological surveillance of Aedes spp. In response to reports of Aedes albopictus in the periphery of Mérida, the state capital of Yucatán, the Ministry of Health increased the specificity of this surveillance. Objective: To describe the presence and distribution of Ae. albopictus in Mérida and its relative abundance compared to Aedesaegypti in ovitraps of the vector control program. Materials and methods: During October, 2019, 91 ovitraps were randomly selected from 31 neighborhoods of Mérida. Mosquitoes were reared at the insectary of the Collaborative Unit for Entomological Bioassays of the Autonomous University of Yucatán from eggs collected in the field. Relative abundance was determined for adult individuals of each identified species and neighborhood. Results: 32 % of the neighborhoods were positive for Ae. albopictus and 100 % for Ae. aegypti. A total of 28 adults of Ae. albopictus (10 females and 18 males) were obtained from ovitraps. No correlation was observed between the abundance of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus for both adults and females (p>0.05) at the neighborhood level. Conclusions: The results confirm that Ae. albopictus coexisted with Ae. aegypti in Mérida at the time of the study. The low relative abundance suggests that Ae. albopictus was in the initial phase of invasion.

Outcomes of patients with COVID-19 in the intensive care unit in Mexico: A multicenter observational study.

BACKGROUND: As of June 15, 2020, a cumulative total of 7,823,289 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported across 216 countries and territories worldwide. However, there is little information on the clinical characteristics and outcomes of critically ill patients with severe COVID-19 who were admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) in Latin America. The present study evaluated the clinical characteristics and outcomes of critically ill patients with severe COVID-19 who were admitted to ICUs in Mexico. METHODS: This was a multicenter observational study that included 164 critically ill patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 who were admitted to 10 ICUs in Mexico, from April 1 to April 30, 2020. Demographic data, comorbid conditions, clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes were collected and analyzed. The date of final follow-up was June 4, 2020. RESULTS: A total of 164 patients with severe COVID-19 were included in this study. The mean age of patients was 57.3 years (SD 13.7), 114 (69.5%) were men, and 6.0% were healthcare workers. Comorbid conditions were common in patients with critical COVID-19: 38.4% of patients had hypertension and 32.3% had diabetes. Compared to survivors, nonsurvivors were older and more likely to have diabetes, hypertension or other conditions. Patients presented to the hospital a median of 7 days (IQR 4.5-9) after symptom onset. The most common presenting symptoms were shortness of breath, fever, dry cough, and myalgias. One hundred percent of patients received invasive mechanical ventilation for a median time of 11 days (IQR 6-14). A total of 139 of 164 patients (89.4%) received vasopressors, and 24 patients (14.6%) received renal replacement therapy during hospitalization. Eighty-five (51.8%) patients died at or before 30 days, with a median survival of 25 days. Age (OR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.02-1.08; p<0.001) and C-reactive protein levels upon ICU admission (1.008; 95% CI, 1.003-1.012; p<0.001) were associated with a higher risk of in-hospital death. ICU length of stay was associated with reduced in-hospital mortality risk (OR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.84-0.94; p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This observational study of critically ill patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 who were admitted to the ICU in Mexico demonstrated that age and C-reactive protein level upon ICU admission were associated with in-hospital mortality, and the overall hospital mortality rate was high. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04336345.

Nitrogen-Enriched Cr1-xAlxN Multilayer-Like Coatings Manufactured by Dynamic Glancing Angle Direct Current Magnetron Sputtering.

Multilayer-like CrN and Cr1-xAlxN coatings with different Al contents were deposited onto a stainless steel substrate using dynamic glancing angle deposition direct current magnetron sputtering (DGLAD dcMS) in a N rich atmosphere to understand the role of Al on the growth of the films and mechanical properties of the nitrides with a multilayer architecture. Chemical analysis by means of energy dispersive analysis (EDS) and glow discharge optical emission spectroscopy (GDOES) depth profiling revealed that while CrN samples were close to stoichiometric, the Cr1-xAlxN coatings presented excess N between 70 and 80% at. An expressive change in texture was observed as the CrN coating changed its preferred orientation from (111) to (200) with the addition of Al, followed by a modification in morphology from grains with faceted pyramidal tops in CrN to dome-shaped grains in Cr1-xAlxN coatings. Multilayer-like nanostructures of corrugated grains were produced with a periodicity of approximately 30 nm using dynamic glancing angle deposition. The deposition rate was drastically reduced with an increase of Al, meanwhile, the best mechanical performance was achieved for the coating with a higher content of Al, with hardness up to 27 GPa and a higher value of maximum resistance to plastic deformation.

New Distribution Record of Aedes albopictus in Quintana Roo, Mexico, and its Importance to Public Health.

Aedes albopictus is an important vector of several arboviruses that affect human health worldwide; thus, knowledge of its distribution is a key factor for the implementation of disease control strategies. In Mexico, Ae. albopictus was recorded for the first time in 1988 in Tamaulipas State (northeast), but currently it has been recorded in 14 of the 32 states in the country. In 2012, it was recorded for the first time in a single locality in Quintana Roo (Cancún). In this study, we provide new distribution information for Ae. albopictus in the center and south of Quintana Roo State and comment on its medical importance.